This letter to the editor by Kristine Cohn appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times on March 16, 2007.

''For the sake of our nation, schools must teach more science," wrote Oliver Pergrams and Patricia Zaradic [''Microscopes vs. video games,'' Controversy, Feb. 18]. I couldn't agree more. Jobs requiring science, engineering or technical training will increase 24 percent between 2004 and 2014 (Bureau of Labor Statistics), but fewer than half of all 2005 high school graduates were ready for college-level math and science.

However, I disagree that ''under No Child Left Behind, science has been left behind.'' Actually, Pergrams and Zaradic left some important facts behind.

Under No Child Left Behind, science is a ''core academic subject.'' To encourage a greater focus and stronger achievement for this critical subject, states will begin assessing students in science at least once in elementary, middle and high school by the 2007-08 school year.

In addition, federal Academic Competitiveness and SMART grants encourage eligible college students to pursue majors in science, math, technology and engineering. Students must complete rigorous coursework to be eligible. In Illinois, that includes three years of science, with at least two courses in biology, chemistry or physics.

The president made clear in his State of the Union address that science is indeed a priority. As he put it, ''We can make sure our children are prepared for the jobs of the future and our country is more competitive by strengthening math and science skills.'' I appreciate Pergrams' and Zaradic's dedication toward that goal, and working together we can ensure a bright future for our children and nation.

Kristine Cohn
Secretary's Regional Representative, Region V
U.S. Department of Education